US Urges Iran to Prioritize Economy After Regional Setbacks
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Iran to refocus its foreign policy on domestic economic development, citing recent military and political setbacks for Tehran and its allies, Al Jazeera reports.
Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations on Wednesday, Blinken highlighted Israel’s military successes against Hezbollah and Hamas, as well as a direct strike on Iranian military capabilities in October.
“One choice it could make and should make is to focus on itself… and to stop getting involved in these adventures or misadventures throughout the region,” Blinken said.
He stressed this advice comes as Iran faces a vulnerable position with the return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House next month.
Israel’s recent actions have significantly impacted Iran’s regional influence. The 14-month war with Hezbollah concluded with a ceasefire that analysts believe left Hezbollah significantly weakened, undermining its role as a key component of Iran’s “axis of resistance.” Israel’s ongoing near-daily strikes in Lebanon further hinder Hezbollah’s rebuilding efforts. The fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, another Iranian ally, further diminishes Tehran’s regional power.
Despite these setbacks, Iranian leaders have remained defiant. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei dismissed claims of the “axis of resistance” being defeated, while Iranian media reported a vow for military retaliation against Israel for the October strike.
Blinken acknowledged concerns that Iran might pursue nuclear weapons in response to increased Israeli influence, but emphasized that such a path is not inevitable and would carry severe consequences. He praised the 2015 nuclear deal, but noted the Trump administration’s withdrawal and subsequent Iranian uranium enrichment activities.
While the incoming Trump administration is expected to increase economic pressure on Iran, Blinken left open the possibility of future negotiations. He highlighted the possibility of a “better, stronger deal” than the 2015 agreement but stressed that any US administration will remain committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Blinken also cautioned against US support for regime change in Iran, citing the limited success of past interventions. This statement comes amidst ongoing domestic protests in Iran and accusations of human rights abuses by the Iranian government. The US, despite providing significant military aid to Israel, continues to present itself as a defender of freedom and human rights in the Middle East.
